Seabourne Logistics extends South African footprint

From the automotive industry to the agricultural community, new road freight and fast delivery options are now available thanks to Seabourne Logistics, which opened a branch in Mbombela, formerly known as Nelspruit, in Mpumalanga.

The Nelspruit branch was officially launched in February 2022. It is anticipated to move to new flagship premises soon that will include warehousing space, according to Seabourne Logistics Director Garry Harris (pictured). Harris is a former Nelspruit resident who lived in the community for 19 years and attended Lowveld High School: “It is so great to be able to open a Seabourne Logistics office in my hometown, and I look forward to connecting with old friends again.”

He adds: “We are really extending our reach and scope in the region with some unique value-added services. A lot of companies offer air freight, which has become much more costly due to the recent surge in fuel prices. Our road-freight option is a unique differentiator for us.”

Services include overnight and economy, courier, and next-day delivery options. A delivery service is also available from Johannesburg to Komatipoort before 12:00. In addition, there is a 48-hour delivery service from Komatipoort to Cape Town, George, East London, Port Elizabeth and vice versa via the road network.

“What continues to give us the leading edge is that we establish long-term relationships with our clients, which allows us to become trusted advisors and business partners. This is largely due to our business values, which include trust, reliability, and flexibility, all based on ensuring a personal service to cater for all client needs,” says Harris.

Zenda Stoffberg, newly appointed Branch Manager, had the following to say: “I feel privileged to have been afforded this opportunity, as there is something different about Seabourne Logistics. It strives for excellence, is very professional, and goes the extra mile for its clients. They are kind and friendly and welcomed me with open arms, and I do indeed feel part of the family. The work ethic is incredible. Seabourne Logistics is well organised, technology-driven, and has excellent communications. It is certainly the best CSD department I have ever worked with.”

Husband-and-wife team Garry and Ezelle Harris set up the business in 2002. After establishing a significant footprint in the automotive industry and other niche sectors such as wine and pharmaceuticals, they sold a 70% stake in the business to the Seabourne Group in 2009. Seabourne Logistics will expand on the group’s global platform and further extend the synergies between the different in-country businesses.

Seabourne Logistics operates globally in South Africa, France, the UK, and The Netherlands. Its logistics and supply chain solutions include warehousing, distribution, courier, clearing and forwarding and air, sea, and rail freight, in addition to specialised solutions for specific requirements.

Domestic services offered by Seabourne Logistics are Early Bird, Overnight Express, Overnight Road, Budget Air Freight, Economy Road, Same Day, Specialised Loads, and National Distribution.